7.21.2008

"There are two lasting bequests we can give our children. One is roots. The other is wings." Hodding Carter, Jr.

Something you likely don’t want to hear: You create your OWN role(s). Some parents take on all the pressure of getting their child to college -- some parents are not involved at all. My recommendation: be an active participant in the process, but don’t do it all yourself. The guilt alone of feeling like you are letting down your child is enough to crush any parent. Work with your child so it’s a group project and no one is holding all the responsibility. It’s a great family experience and learning process for kids and parents.

And right now you’re probably thinking, “yeah... okay... just tell me what I need to do... my child has been through enough... I couldn’t put something else on her plate.” And those thoughts are completely natural-- thoughts most parents in your position feel; however, the college transition is important for a young adult’s sense of autonomy and identity. All of the parts leading up to it are like baby steps that ease the transition. While going through cancer, many kids are left with very few decisions of their own and little sense of “normal.” There is nothing more normal than filling out scholarship applications-- think of it as a small pre-college gift :)!

Some Tips:

1. Include your child in the scholarship process and give him/her responsibility.

2. Remain positive -- you want to model a positive outlook for your child (Remember over $10 billion dollars is available for college funding)

Note: Some of the resources on this site require a fee. I don’t recommend paying for something unless absolutely necessary (try to find a similar option for free). However, the site is full of free resources as well!! Take advantage of those resources.

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About CCC

Every cancer survivor deserves the chance to receive a college education. Yet the burden of medical debt, side effects of treatment, and limited access to financial resources leaves many young adult cancer survivors with little hope of attending college. CCC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for young adult cancer survivors through two initiatives:

• An annual college scholarship program that recognizes survivors who demonstrate leadership, commitment to education, and betterment of their community.

• An online support network that connects survivors and provides a comprehensive database of financial resources for higher education.